EYC Foundation seeks to support exceptional students that have a passion for the maritime world, a love of life on the water, a respect for the marine environment and a dream of a lifetime career in the industry.

Today’s successful Marine & Maritime Scholarship program was designed to enhance EYCF’s Career Expo mission. Wheras the Expo is about helping students discover the countless possibilities for careers in the industry, the scholarship program is about supporting students that have made their decision and are on their way to making those careers happen.

“I really have found my footing in my junior year at Maine Maritime, and I raised my GPA significantly even in higher level classes. I was able to take very valuable classes like Ship Handling, Stability, and Marine Systems.” ~ WILL ARNONE

Originally known as MAST (MArine Skills Training) Scholarships, the program was launched in 2015. That first year, 5 students were each awarded $700 per semester. Eight years later, in 2023 the program grew to 12 students that were initially promised $2000 for the school year. Thanks to a generous donation from a Friend of the Foundation, EYCF was able to surprise recipients with news that their second semester award doubled to $2000.

Scholarship recipients that have completed their schooling and certifications are thriving all over the word today.

“[Having both graduated from NY Maritime] Jack is on his way to Antwerp, and Maxwell is heading to Saipan. The EYC Foundation played a crucial role in planting and nurturing the maritime seeds that have flourished in both of our sons.”
~ JOHN RYDER SR.

The Voorhis Scholarship was created to honor Stephen Voorhis’ life-long commitment to boating and the marine trades.

Each semester the Voorhis Scholar designation is awarded to the student who is most outstanding in areas of academics, volunteerism and potential.

The Fall 2024 recipient of this honor is senior, Teleri Wilt who is currently studying Marine Transportation at Massachusetts Maritime Academy. In the past year Teleri trained in a 360 degree bridge simulator learning to navigate ships through busy waterways and piloted true-to-scale model ships that mimic 1,000 foot tankers. She dreams of a career at sea.

Help make a student’s dream come true

Meet the 2024 New Scholarship Recipients

  • Charles Ernst

    Hails from: Arnold, MD

    He plans to major in Marine Transportation and pursue a seagoing career. He’ll be part of the school’s regimental program leading to a Coast Guard-issued deck officer’s license for unlimited tonnage. The Broadneck High School grad’s entrepreneurial and mechanical prowess led him to build a small business buying, refurbishing, and re-selling outboard motors.

  • EYCFoundation Marine & Maritime Scholarships Participating School Logo

    Alexander Faranetta

    Hails from: St. Michaels, MD

    He will major in Marine Biology and become certified in small vessel operations. Having volunteered at a local wildlife refuge, the Wye River Upper School graduate’s goal since 6th grade has been to become a Marine Scientist.

  • Emma Guy

    Hails from: Churchton, MD

    She plans to major in Environmental Studies. Inspired by her time growing up on the Chesapeake Bay, after graduate school, her focus will be on protecting green and blue spaces. The Southern High School grad enjoyed volunteering with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service where she assisted with vegetation and waterbird nesting surveys.

  • James Ronayne

    Hails from: Annapolis, MD

    His studies will focus on the Environment, Sustainability, and Marine Biology. He has worked with Chesapeake Oyster Alliance, Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Chesapeake Conservation Association. While at Annapolis High School, he was on the Water Polo, Sailing, and Swim Teams; and served as a sailing coach at Annapolis Yacht Club.

  • EYCFoundation Marine & Maritime Scholarships Participating School Logo

    Wyatt Zlupko

    Hails from: Edgewater, MD

    He will major in Marine Engineering Operations, while minoring in Transportation, qualifying him to acquire a captain’s license. As a student at South River High School and driven by his interest in boats and engines, Wyatt completed the Marine Service Technician Program at Center of Applied Technology – South. Additionally, he’s earning his American Boat & Yacht Council certification.

Meet the 2024 Returning Recipients

EYCFoundation Marine & Maritime Scholarships Participating School Logo

Will Arnone

Vessel Operations & Technology

EYCFoundation Marine & Maritime Scholarships Participating School Logo

Dylan Bender

Marine Transportation

EYCFoundation Marine & Maritime Scholarships Participating School Logo

Caleb Brockett

Naval Architecture

EYCFoundation Marine & Maritime Scholarships Participating School Logo

Luke Carter

Composite Boat Building

EYCFoundation Marine & Maritime Scholarships Participating School Logo

Nate Gifford

Marine Transportation

EYCFoundation Marine & Maritime Scholarships Participating School Logo

Zachary Hardy

Marine Transportation

Julia Kruesi

Marine Sciences

EYCFoundation Marine & Maritime Scholarships Participating School Logo

Teleri Wilt

Marine Transportation

Submit your application for the 2025-2026 school year today!

Application deadline is May 15, 2025

The Marine & Maritime Scholarship program is chaired by Mike Morris
Reach him at: MMScholarships@eycfoundation.org

Learn about all the EYCF programs